Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, has assured that no permanent structures or jobs will be lost in the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, particularly at the Landmark beach and resort area. In an interview with ARISE NEWS, Umahi clarified that the design of the coastal highway project only involves the removal of 15 meters of the shoreline and a few shanties, with all other facilities in the business hub remaining intact.
Umahi emphasized that his recent visit to the Landmark beach aimed to understand the situation firsthand and dispel misinformation. He assured that no jobs would be lost as a result of the construction, as only the shoreline and a few temporary structures will be affected. He affirmed that Landmark’s facilities will remain untouched, contributing to the preservation of jobs and business activities in the area.
Regarding ownership disputes over the land, Umahi pointed out that by recent Supreme Court rulings, the shoreline and a 250-meter stretch belong to the federal government. Despite this, the construction plans for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway prioritize minimal disruption, with only a 15-meter corridor required from the tourism destination.
Umahi urged the public to disregard false information regarding job losses and property damage, emphasizing the government’s commitment to responsible development and investment protection.
Shifting focus to infrastructure rehabilitation, Umahi discussed plans for the Third Mainland Bridge, highlighting the proactive approach taken to address aging infrastructure concerns. He underscored the importance of infrastructure maintenance and safety, particularly for bridges constructed over 50 years ago.
Additionally, Umahi outlined plans to establish an observation room on the islands of the Third Mainland Bridge to facilitate quick emergency responses. The observation room will integrate various security measures, including CCTV surveillance and collaboration with security agencies, to enhance safety and security on the bridge.
Umahi’s statements reflect the government’s efforts to balance infrastructure development with environmental preservation and job security, ensuring sustainable progress for Nigeria’s coastal regions.
